Monday, June 29, 2015

About the book: The Mizielinskis return with a compendium of 36 activities for you to design, decorate and draw. Bursting with fascinating facts and puzzles from around the world, this book offers hours of entertainment to young adventurers.

My thoughts: I previously reviewed "Maps" conceived and illustrated by extremely the talented Mizielinskis duo. That was a real treat. (Be sure you go back and read it.) Now there is a Maps Activity Book by these same artists.

Young students and budding artists have at their fingertips a book of creative coloring and drawing activities. This will help them discover their world and have fun while doing it stimulating them mentally and artistically.

Throughout the activity book, they can visit a variety of countries and learn tidbits about that country. They then have an activity that incorporates that information. Example: On the map of Africa, they can draw and color several animals indigenous to Africa. Or for Japan they can design and color a kimono.
In the United Kingdom map outline, they can draw castles all over the place and of their own design because, you know, there once were many castles there.

This is not your standard geography project where the student draws a map of a country and fills in places. No, this is a fun way to learn about our World. This would be a great activity book for children in the home or to be used in a classroom setting. Not dependent on the predecessor, Maps, it is independent though it wouldn't hurt at all to have both available.

Another great product from Big Picture Press an imprint of Candlewick Press. I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are just mine alone. No compensation was received for this review.

I have reviewed several of the Vita Science products and highly endorse them. When given the opportunity to review the Vita Science "Joint Right" Hypo-Allergenic Pain Relieving Cream, I was delighted. I have some typical aches and pains that seem to be the companion of a lady-of-a-certain-age as most folks do. So when knees, shoulders, neck, or back aches rise up to torment, I use pain relieving tablets and sometimes topical applications of pain relieving products. Now who wants to take lots of pills? I don't so the topical products are a choice that I really like. But they need to work, don't they?Joint Right by Vita Sciences did help to relieve some knee aches and an aching shoulder. I found the product easy to apply and rub into the skin and it left no residue to rub off on my clothes. Nice. However, there was a slight down side for me that might not apply to most folks. Some ingredient in the product produces a stinging "pepper" sort or feel. Not unbearable, but not really a lot to my liking. Also, even though I washed my hands several time, I found the product still had some remaining residue that irritated my eyes if I touched them. So that is just a cautionary word.

So it provides some relief and has a mildly irritating factor for me. I'll give it a 4-star rating.

Product Description (from Vita Sciences) - Targeted pain relief caused by inflamed joints—Vita Science Joint Right cream provides odor-free relief. Formulated with natural ingredients that have been scientifically established to work. Joint Right cream incorporates a unique combination of ingredients, our own BlueProfen complex, that work in 2 main ways to provide relief. Immediate relief is provided by bringing joint inflammation under control. Long term benefit comes from building up mucosal joint linings (lubricating the joint).

Joint inflammation is typically addressed using over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.), prescription steroids (such as prednisone), or COX2 inhibitors (Celebrex, etc.) available by prescription. There can be serious side effects from using any of these forms of treatment.

Using Vita Sciences Joint Right cream as directed is a safe and reliable method of dealing with joint pain. Moisturizers and anti-oxidants allow this light cream to easily absorb into the skin. Each 1.7 ounce bottle delivers 30 applications of lotion in protected and measured amounts. Natural ingredients assure this lotion is gentle to your skin. (see it on Amazon.com)

EASY TO USE - Each measured dose of Joint Right lotion from our airless dispenser delivers a full dose.

GENTLE ON THE SKIN - Our scent-free hypoallergenic lotion is gentle on the skin, odorless, nonirritating

MAXIMUM ABSORPTION - Joint Right cream is extremely safe to use. A full fluid ounce of cream contains 1,330 milligrams of BlueProfen complex plus Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Vitamin E, and Pro-Vitamin B5 which are all very good for your skin.

DISCLOSURE: I received this product at a discount in exchange for my honest and unbiased feedback.

Friday, June 26, 2015

About the book: A dying wish alters the course of a young woman's life.

Life hadn't been easy for Summer Snow. In acts of selflessness---caring for her ailing parents and running her grandmother's bookstore---she had forfeited her youth and dreams for the needs of others. And the only tries she had at love . . . didn't turn out. She had the bookstore, she had her beloved granny, but she was missing something---or someone.

Opportunity strikes when Granny sends Summer on an unexpected adventure with one Martin Langtree, a kind but gangly young man from Summer's past. A childhood friendship is rekindled, a romance is sparked, and mysteries are solved in one magical Texas summer. Will Summer strike out on love again, or will things finally go her way?

My thoughts: As usual, author Anita Higman has woven a lovely story involving a sweet Granny (whom we all will love and wish were our Granny), brothers who are scoundrels, sweet romance, grief, and restoration. People of faith who lived and shared their faith in a loving, caring God.

Summer is quite a sweet young lady but one who has missed out on love and the adventure of establishing a life of her own because she sacrificed her future to care for ailing parents until their death. Now her Granny has a special, dying request of Summer.

Being reunited with a childhood friend from 20 years prior is a story in itself and so sweet. The beauty of Anita Higman's prose captures the reader's interest and desire to continue page after page until the end is reach. A good read. A sweet read (though you'll want to do physical harm to the two brothers). A lovable dog and a faithful housekeeper are all part of the mix of characters whose involvement color the canvas of Summer's List.Purchase a copy: CLICK HERE

About the author: Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has over thirty books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. She's been a Barnes & Noble "Author of the Month" for Houston and has a BA degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. Anita loves good movies, exotic teas, and brunch with her friends.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the publisher and author to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. No compensation was received for this review. Giveaway copy is provided by Litfuse Publicity Group.

Have you ever heard of having actual 24K gold in your cosmetics? I hadn't until recently. I began seeing products of various types with gold in them and their being touted as the real thing and the best thing going for your skin. So when given the opportunity from ISA to try their XANADU 24K Gold Vitamin C Serum, I jumped at the chance.

I've been using it a couple of weeks now - morning and evening. First of all, this beautiful product is gorgeous sitting on my counter. I feel so blessed to have such a lovely product. Isn't it pretty? It is a pretty expensive product, but one you might want to consider worth the gold (now that pun was really intended!).

I have used a number of different serums from high end department store names to a plethora of brands found only online (as far as I can determine). Most work very nicely and we should use any and all products we can afford and to which we have access to care for our skin. Using the XANADU 24K Gold Vitamin C Serum has taken skin care to a new level! I just love it! Why, you might just want to make a little pedestal and put it right up on it!

So luxurious!

First I cleanse my face. Then I apply the XANADU 24K Gold Vitamin C Serum which I allow to thoroughly dry before adding moisturizer and makeup. This serum hydrates and produces a nice soft effect to my skin. I can even see a few little gold particles on my skin. Did I say I love it? I suppose I have, but it is worth saying again.

How to apply? For best results with this product as with other skin care products, you should apply with an upward motion.

Product Description - (provided by ISA) - Formulated with a combination of Botanical Ingredients, High Tech science, and 24K Real Gold. This serum will moisturize, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, even skin tone, repair sun damage, and give you a golden youthful glow.

From High Tech science

The Perfect serum for your face, made from the best botanical extracts and leading-edge technology.Important Safety Notice: For topical use only. Not for use on mucous membranes. Do not ingest. Do not apply in, on, or around eye area. Irritation may result. If you do accidentally get some product in your eye, rinse with cool water.Ingredients: 24K Gold, Deionized water, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Collagen, Rose Extract, Hyaluronic acid, Creatine, Beta-Glucan, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide (Matrixyl-3000), Epidermal Growth Factor, P-anisic.Directions: Apply twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, on freshly cleansed skin. Avoid eyes and mouth. For speedy application, pump the bottle top twice into the palm of one hand, rub palms together, then apply to face. For luxurious application, place one pump on each cheek (where your dimples would be) and smooth onto face with your finger tips in a circular upward motion. WARNING: The second method may leave tiny flecks of gold intact on your face for your friends to envy!

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Thursday, June 25, 2015

About the book: Shannon Wilde is the middle sister--and the one who loves animals. She's established her own homestead and is raising sheep for their wool. Things are going fine...until Shannon gets swept over a cliff by Matthew Tucker!

Tucker seizes every opportunity to get away from civilization, but one particular walk in the woods ends with him sprinting away from an angry grizzly and plunging into a raging river, accidentally taking Shannon Wilde with him. Their adventure in the wilderness results in the solitary mountain man finding himself hitched to a young woman with a passel of relatives, a homestead, and a flock of sheep to care for.

As Tucker and Shannon learn to live with each other, strange things begin to happen on Shannon's land. Someone clearly wants to drive her off, but whoever it is apparently didn't count on Tucker. Trying to scare Matthew Tucker just makes him mad--and trying to hurt the woman he's falling in love with sets off something even he never expected.

My thoughts: From the crack of the spine, you'll have your funny bone tickled with the author's quirky, funny spin of this tale. Packed with danger, fraught with peril, chased by bears, and an escape over frothing river falls is told with a twist of the tongue as the characters mentally brace themselves for adventure.

Shannon Wilde (one of the Wild at Heart sisters) and Tucker (raised by Indians and tamed by no one) meet and greet each other and are ultimately married by the parson in the middle of the woods after being rescued. Bizarre, to be sure. But never-the-less seems to work.

Not only are they at risk from bears, rivers, and dark caves but danger lurks as land-stealing, barn-burning, meanness is afoot and aimed in their direction.

There is a serious side to Mary Connealy's book, too. The story is post-Civil War era and the three Wilde sisters all served as soldiers and fought during the Civil War (dressed as men, because women could not serve) at the insistence of their father. Shannon worked as a medic and in the story she deals with the nightmares those terrible war experiences brought to her.

As usual, a Mary Connealy book is a fun to read book with a bit of romance and a bit of suspense mixed in with the adventure and liberally dusted with wit.

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

About the book: Spring has arrived and pollen is in the air. Baby Bear does not like the pollen—it sticks to his fur and makes him itchy and sneezy. He’s allergic! Achoo! He just wishes the pollen were gone. But when his friends gather to tell him why they need pollen, Baby Bear learns that pollen is good for the forest and provides food for many animals, including him!

My thoughts: Allergies are so unpleasant and affect so many folks. Allergies to pollens are dreaded but few folks who are contending with this problem stop and think how thankful they should be for the pollens. In Achoo! Why Pollen Counts the young reader learns about allergies and also about the importance of pollen.

Personally, I'm one of those affected by pollens and I, like "Baby Bear," contend with the days of itching and sneezing during the pollen season. However, Baby Bear meets a variety of critters including spiders, butterflies, and small animals who each explain how pollen helps them.

The story is sweet and the illustrations absolutely wonderful. The lessons on the value of pollen and how it is spread and its purpose and action in the cycle of life are really good. I love, too, the "For Creative Minds" pages at the end of the book. These enable the parent or teacher to further expand the learning opportunity with more information and activities.

I have just one little question. Do animals in the wild experience allergic reactions to pollen? While it makes for a cute story and Baby Bear is charming, in a book that deals with educational insights, it is important not to introduce inaccurate information in the story line even for the sake of a sweet tale. Click "comments" below and read author's response to my question, "Do animals in the wild experience allergic reactions to pollen?"

Love the book. Love the information. Absolutely love the illustrations!

Author/Illustrator Info: While is an award-winning children’s book illustrator, Achoo! Why Pollen Counts is her debut picture book as an author. Her art delivers a unique blend of realism, heartfelt emotion, love of nature, and life lessons for children of all ages. She has illustrated Salamander Season; Sea Slime: It’s Eeuwy, Gooey and Under the Sea; The Shape Family Babies; Animal Partners; Shark Baby; Home in the Cave; The Glaciers are Melting!; and Astro: The Steller Sea Lion for Arbordale. Shennen has also illustrated a number of best-selling books, including, Snakes: Long, Longer, Longest; Sharks: Big, Bigger, Biggest; Ocean Counting: Odd Numbers; and Icky Bug Shapes. Shennen lives near Boston. For more information, visit her website at www.shennenbersani.com.

I was provided a complimentary copy by Arbordale Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are solely my own. I received no compensation for the review.

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

About the book: The third in a visually stunning series of information graphics that shows just how interesting and humorous scientific information can be. Complex facts about space are reinterpreted as stylish infographics that astonish, amuse, and inform.

Researched by the Guardian’s Datablog expert and illustrated by New York Times designer Jennifer Daniel, this is a book of the highest pedigree.My thoughts: The presentation of this book is bold, bright, and striking. Designed to appeal to children ages 8-12, it is sure to grab their attention as they look through the sections that are specially color coordinated with tabs for easy search. There is no index or glossary, but kids will find their way through this book that is filled with amazing bits of information about "space" - that is our Earth, the planets, the Sun, the Moon, and beyond to the galaxies and stars to the Universe itself.

The book begins with an understatement.... "Space is so mind-bogglingly vast...." and yet that statement says it all in a nutshell. It simply amazes the mind with the vastness that is Space!

And the information this little book presents is pretty vast, too. Each tabbed section begins with an "essay" about that section's topic and then the fun, facts, and fabulous graphics begin to unload lots of information on the reader. I find this book amazing, humorous, informative, bright, fun. The book is written with the premise that our solar system is billions of years old, so readers will have to sort that out to their own particular belief system and how it affects the beginning. Personally, I believe God created it all.

This is a secular publication and very well done. It is published by Big Picture Press an imprint of Candlewick Press. I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. No compensation was received and opinions are strictly my own.

Friday, June 19, 2015

Don't you just love finding little treats for the Princesses in your life? Well, I have a wee-little-Grace in my family; and when I saw the the opportunity to review the "Princess Grace Sticker & Activity Book," I simply jumped at the chance.

It doesn't hurt the pocketbook either at only $3.99. It is filled with creative and interactive activities from easy to a bit harder. The majority of the activities are beyond a 4-year-old, but they would find the stickers fun. A good little activity book for ages 4-8.

Themed to focus on the Princess Parables and produced by ZonderKidz (Zondervan), it provides Christian activities to entertain. Princess Grace and her four Princess sisters are featured in this series. Well, how appropriate! You see, my little Grace is has three older sisters; and they are all Princess material.

I think this little sticker and activity book will provide a lot of enjoyment, especially on days when she can not play outside.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review through the BookLook Review Program on behalf of ZonderKidz. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Folks, you've got to hear this story and discover this product for yourself. Well, the story first straight from "Hey Mama"...

This is a short story line of why Hey Mama was created and what we were looking to achieve with the finished product..

During my wife Lisa's pregnancy of our one month old baby girl Nya, she realized that besides the herbal tea bags that she was drinking regularly, basically no beverages existed that were specifically formulated to suit the needs of pregnant and nursing mothers. So she sought out the finest ingredients and herbal blends to create an herbal tea experience in the convenience of a ready to drink brewed tea.

All of the herbal ingredients in each Hey Mama Tea were specifically added to provide a safe, distinct, and great tasting tasting herbal brew to provide support throughout three trimesters of pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

This really caught my attention. You see, although I'm a Southern lady-of-a-certain-age and not of child-bearing age, I am a mother. My children are grown and have given me 13 grand children. I've seen pregnancy close-up-and-personal. Nursing babies has been priority, too. But so has thirst and a desire for something thirst-quenching and refreshing. And of course, something that won't harm that little one.

The Hey Mama Teas are simply good stuff. They are bottled in thick bottles (no risky plastic here!) that really help chill the tea. I have tried four of their varieties. So far my favorite is the peach tea but they are refreshing, light, and delicious. I will say, though, that the Nettle (or something) in the Lemon tea was simply not appealing to me. But the Peach (my favorite), the Raspberry, and Minty were so good and refreshing.

Organic. Kosher. Herbal. No Caffeine. Non GMO. Has Folic Acid. And it also tastes so good! So these will receive the Chat With Vera stamp of approval. I give Hey Mama Teas high marks for taste, convenience, and quality.

Product information (from Hey Mama) - "Hey Mama is set apart by its commitments to bringing joy to moms by providing safe and delicious ready to drink beverages suited to fit their needs. Hey Mama Teas are ready to drink, herbal teas specifically formulated for pregnant and nursing moms. We used the safest, highest quality and best tasting ingredients to provide support during and after pregnancy. Hey Mama Teas are naturally caffeine free, USDA Organic, Non Gmo, Kosher and contain 100% of RDA of Folic Acid.

Organic herbs such as..

Red Raspberry Leaf-The tannins in raspberry leaf give it astringent properties which make it soothing both internally and externally. It is naturally high in magnesium, potassium, iron and b-vitamins which make it helpful for nausea, leg cramps, and improving sleep during pregnancy. The specific combination of nutrients in Raspberry Leaf makes it extremely beneficial for the female reproductive system.

Nettle-The list of vitamins and minerals in Stinging Nettles nearly includes every one known to be necessary for human health and growth. Vitamins A, C, D and K, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, iron and sulphur are particularly abundant in Nettles leaves. Nettles are a very high source of digestible iron.

Peppermint- Peppermint can help calm your stomach muscles, which can help relieve flatulence, nausea and vomiting that can occur during early pregnancy. Peppermint-herb is an excellent source of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, manganese and magnesium. The mint herb contains no cholesterol; however, it is rich in essential oils, vitamins and dietary fiber, which helps to control blood cholesterol and blood pressure inside the human body.

Ginger- As if easing morning sickness didn't make ginger attractive enough, you'll also get small amounts of key nutrients when you consume fresh ginger. Ginger supplies iron for proper blood formation, vitamin C to help support the formation of your baby's immune system and folic acid, which helps prevent birth defects. composes many essential nutrients and vitamins such as pyridoxine (vitamin B-6), pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5) that are required for optimum health.

Fenugreek- Fenugreek can increase a woman's breast milk supply because it acts as a galactagogue, a substance for increasing milk supply.

Fennel- Fennel seeds contain anethole, which is considered a phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens mimic the properties of the hormone estrogen, which is normally involved in the growth of the mammary glands and increased secretion of milk in women. Fennel is also an excellent sources of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, iron, selenium, zinc, manganese, and magnesium.

Chamomile- Most people turn to chamomile tea for its nerve-soothing and sedative qualities.

Oat Straw- Oatstraw is one of the best remedies for “feeding” the nervous system. It is useful for exhaustion and depression; it strengthens the whole nervous system, making it a preventative and protective herb to enhance your ability to cope with stress. While being stimulating and energy-giving, they are also relaxing and an aid to sleep. Oats is also a uterine tonic, and works on strengthening the thyroid and balancing hormone production. Oatstraw contains protein (gluten), saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroidal compounds, vitamins B1, B2, D, E, carotene, starch and fat. It also contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron and trace elements like silicon and potassium.

Blessed Thistle- Blessed thistle is believed to be a galactagogue, taken to help make more breast milk. It is an excellent herbal source of potassium and sodium.

Naturally Caffeine Free Red Rooibos Tea- Rooibos tea appears to contain large amounts of polyphenols and other antioxidants that appear to protect your body’s cells from oxidative stress from free radicals. Rooibos benefits include positive things to do with our stomachs, including improving digestion, relieves nausea and vomiting, and prevents constipation. During pregnancy, the woman’s body produces more blood to supplement for both the baby and the mother. The body needs more iron, folate, and vitamin B12 for blood cell production. If the supply of these is not enough, then anemia might develop. Iron with folic supplements is usually prescribed by the doctor to prevent anemia and congenital defects. Tannins, chemicals which are found in teas, are responsible for its antioxidant properties. This same chemical is also responsible for the decrease in iron absorption by the body. Apparently, rooibos does not contain tannin and therefore, does not hinder the absorption of iron.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Kate won't be safe until all of Port Aster's secrets are revealed

Researcher Kate Adams has finally pinpointed the supposed "miracle plant" that tore apart her family years ago. She's certain that discovering its secrets is her only hope of solving the mystery surrounding her father's disappearance. She's willing to risk anything to find the truth, including her relationship with Detective Tom Parker. But with so many people in pursuit of the plant, going it alone might be a fatal mistake. Award-winning author Sandra Orchard pulls out all the stops in this conclusion to the Port Aster Secrets series.

My thoughts: Having read the first two books in the Aster Secrets series, it was like stepping on familiar ground when I began reading page one of Desperate Measures. The characters are involved and intertwined with each other in sometimes confusing and bewildering ways. Their emotional quotient reacting to ensuing developments gives this reader the impression that they are hiding secrets and basically deceptive deep within their being. This conflicts with the tenets of Christianity which is their purported faith.

A predictable conclusion is certainly in the works, yet the culprit was not easily determined by this reader. The predictable conclusion on the romantic interest involving the main characters seemed thwarted at times by the need for deception. Can romance truly survive a beginning in deception?

The "main character," based on impact upon the story, is truly not a person but indeed is a plant of uncertain use. As the author has Kate and Tom running circles around each other and around this secretive plant, the story runs amoke.

Sandra Orchard is award-winning author of several books including Deadly Devotion, winner of the 2014 The Word Award for suspense, and Blind Trust. Her Love Inspired Suspense titles have garnered two Canadian Christian Writing Awards and a Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award. Sandra has also received a Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She lives in Ontario, Canada. Learn more at www.sandraorchard.com.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Revell a division of Baker Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

About the book: Ahoy—Pirate Pig on board! What does a book-loving pig like Rufus do when school's out for summer? He turns to his favorite stories for inspiration, of course! And before long, he's dreaming of days filled with adventure and nights under blankets of stars. It's the pirate life for him, matey. But Captain Wibblyshins says NO PIGS ON PIRATE SHIPS! After all, pigs get tangled in the rat lines, they picnic in the crow's nest, and worst of all, they even wipe their chins with the Jolly Roger. Can Rufus convince the Captain that he's no landlubber swine? And could his ticket to piratehood be . . . reading?

My thoughts: Just looking at the cover sort of ticked my fancy and made me want to meet Rufus. How timely here at the start of summer, to have Rufus, who dearly loves school and books, go to school and find the school door locked. Other students are off to various summer activities, but Rufus decides he want to be a pirate. So he sets out to board a pirate ship and go to sea.

The illustrations capture the essence of Rufus ------ as he tries time and time again to board the ship but the captain of the pirates won't allow a pig on his boat and he gives various reasons why he won't. Rufus returns time and time again with something he, a pig, can do to help on the ship.

Throughout the story, Rufus' love of books and of reading is obvious. He has his books with him wherever he goes. And finally finds the solution to his becoming a pirate in the use of words - words which appear in books, on signs, and everywhere.

The child (and parent) that loves books will identify with Rufus. And perhaps the reluctant reader will see how books are fun companions and a key to opening many doors.

Rufus Goes to Sea is a super book that will engage the child individually or in group settings. This would be a great book for the home, school, or public libraries to make certain they have on their shelves.

GIVEAWAY

Begins June 16 & ENDS July 7 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT.

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review and the opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Monday, June 15, 2015

The wondrous beauty of a child in his or her innocence and youth is truly remarkable. And children’s play should never disrupt this state of youthful innocence. Therefore, implements of play – toys – that are inappropriate for the child’s age betray and disrupt the normal development of the child.

Play is the work of children

It is the responsibility of adults with the oversight of the child, to provide appropriate toys. This has been my firm belief through the years when I raised my five children and followed the childhood of my 13 grandchildren. For this reason, I was selective in my choice of toys for them.

I recently stumbled across a new brand and style of dolls. These are the Lottie Dolls. They definitely receive a “Chat With Vera” seal of approval and high recommendation. Here are some of the reasons….

These are beautifully designed and well-crafted.

They are designed to accurately represent a 9-year old girl in body build and proportions.

You won't find makeup, jewelry, or high heels.

The clothes and accessories are of quality materials, well made, and well designed.

The dolls represent a broad spectrum of personalities and girl's activities.

Looking at the English Country Garden Lottie Doll, she has on a sweet little jumper style dress with appliques, a ruffle, and pocket. Her shoes are sweet Mary Jane slippers and she has white socks. She has a sweet, innocent expression on her face as befits the innocence of a young girl. She is ready for sweet little hands to hold her, bend her arms and legs in various positions, and dress her.

Perfect in size to carry to all those excursions little girls like to go on without taking up too much space. She is 18cm tall (roughly 7"). Beautifully packaged for gifting. This lovely little doll has won 19 international awards, including 5 Oppenheim Portfolio Platinum Awards.

There are a variety of accessory packs. I received the hair care pack with brush, hair rubber bands, and a little drawstring baggie to store them. These are perfect for brushing and fixing the doll's soft, silky hair.

Where can Lottie Dolls be found? They have their own website - Lottie Dolls. But they may also be found on Amazon and on Barnes and Noble. Dolls range $19.95 to $24.95 and accessory packs are around $10. Outfits are $9.99. There is even a Finn (boy) doll as well.

Award-winning, childlike dolls, that empower young minds and nurture individuality through play

Created in England by folks that want to assure that children at play are nurtured by their play with toys that are age appropriate.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Summer is here. Kids are out of school. Vacations have begun and those can be local or anywhere else in the World besides your own backyard. But what if you're not going to get to go anywhere besides your own backyard? That doesn't mean your mind can't travel. So let's take a mind-vacation-trip. Today our introduction to cultures of the world takes us to Scotland and Hungary. Author Carole P. Roman continues writing her series of little books giving youngsters a glimpse into the lives of children in various countries.

ISBN13: 9781500531331

SCOTLAND

As with other books in the If You Were Me and Lived in….. series, Scotland is introduced to the reader as a part of the United Kingdom that is comprised of Britain, Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. There are over 700 islands comprising Scotland. Edinburg is the capital and people have lived in that area for thousands of years.

Information of particular interest to the young child is included such as common names of boys and girls, what they call mother and father, special games, and foods that are eaten there.

Of course, the legend of the Loch Ness Monster is mentioned and the official animal of Scotland – the unicorn. The wearing of the kilt and of tartan is illustrated and explained.

At the back of the book is a guide to words of interest and how to pronounce them.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

ISBN13: 9781500483722

HUNGARY

As with all of Carole P. Roman's Introduction to Cultures books, we begin with locating the country on the World globe. Did you know that Hungary is completely land-locked and in central Europe. Budapest is the capital and largest city no only of Hungary but also of the European Union?

Hungary is famous for its beautiful caves. There are over 700 caves they are famous for the stalagmites in the caves.

Goulash is a popular food and they use a lot of paprika to season their food.
They have their own holidays, too. Hungary's history dates back over 1,000 years.

At the end of the book there is a page of words with definitions that are good to know about Hungary.

To date, Carole P. Roman has written and printed more than ten of the If You Were Me and Lived in…… books. Chat With Vera has reviewed most of these. I invite you to read my reviews and see if these might be good books to add to the library of that special child of yours. They are especially nice to have on hand in the home school library or school classroom library.

DISCLOSURE: The author provided a complimentary copy of If You Were Me and Lived In Scotland and also .... Hungary in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and I was not compensated for this review. Giveaway prizes are provided by the author and sent directly to the winner.

Thursday, June 11, 2015

About the book: When Eli and his father visit an unusual zoo, they count the creatures in each exhibit. Eli sees one alligator, then one bison, and next two camels. Soon a number pattern emerges and Eli thinks he can predict how many animals will be in the next exhibit. Explore the zoo with Eli as he runs ahead to test his hypothesis.

My thoughts: Arbordale Publishing has again combined education with entertainment. Author Tom Robinson has taken the mathematical concept of fibonacci sequencing and applied it simplistically in a story where a young boy and his father visit a zoo. As they visit the various animal displays, Eli (the boy) notices that there is a pattern. Each display's number of animals increases and that increase is predictable by adding the number of the previous two displays. He has basically discovered the concept of fibonacci sequencing.

We've all seen the beauty of spirals in nature and mathematicians have discovered that this is actually the same as fibonacci sequencing. Personally, not being mathematically inclined, understanding this concept is a bit beyond me but I do follow what Eli has discovered.

The illustrator, Christina Wald, has used the imagery of circles (whether this was done intentionally or not) which allows the reader's mind subconsciously to entertain the theory of the fibonacci sequence spiral. Written for the grade K-3 child, the concept might not be easily grasped in this age group even though the story and presentation is simple.

Using the concept of entertaining stories to bring out a mathematical concept is a growing trend in educational fiction. In this, as with other Arbordale Publishing books, there are several pages in the back of the book that present material and activities for the creative mind. This can be well-used by the adult to lead the child into understanding the concepts brought out in the story.

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

About the book: The unforgettable account and courageous actions of the U.S. Army’s 240th Assault Helicopter Company and Green Beret Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez, who risked everything to rescue a Special Forces team trapped behind enemy lines.

In Legend, acclaimed bestselling author Eric Blehm takes as his canvas the Vietnam War, as seen through a single mission that occurred on May 2, 1968. A twelve-man Special Forces team had been covertly inserted into a small clearing in the jungles of neutral Cambodia—where U.S. forces were forbidden to operate. Their objective, just miles over the Vietnam border, was to collect evidence that proved the North Vietnamese Army was using the Cambodian sanctuary as a major conduit for supplying troops and materiel to the south via the Ho Chi Minh Trail. What the team didn’t know was that they had infiltrated a section of jungle that concealed a major enemy base. Soon they found themselves surrounded by hundreds of NVA, under attack, low on ammunition, stacking the bodies of the dead as cover in a desperate attempt to survive the onslaught.

When Special Forces Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez heard the distress call, he jumped aboard the next helicopter bound for the combat zone without hesitation.

My thoughts: Legend is a story worth reading. As I turned the pages, I realized how little I knew of the time when the United States was fighting in Vietnam. I was young, the age of many of these young soldiers, during this time. But I honestly had little idea the intensity of each moment. True, no matter the time or age or era, war is terrible and truly beyond comprehension for the lay person. But I wasn't ready for the reality that this story brought forth.

Beginning with the background of who Roy Benavidez is and what shaped him into the individual he became is a wonderful story in itself. His was the story of the migrant worker family and how they were short on schooling because they followed the crops and the seasons. A story of hard work. A story of teen rebellion and a grandfather who taught him pride in family and achievement, and whose guidance steered him toward a better life. As he moved into army life, he was determined to do well.

After serving a tour in Vietnam and becoming so seriously wounded he should never have been able to walk again, the determination instilled into him by his grandfather to overcome adversity drove him to push himself to recovery and strength. He was determined to remain in the army. The army was determined that if he remained he would have a desk job. He was determined to become a Green Beret in Special Forces. How he achieved this is miraculous and intriguing.

As the story progresses it is easy to get bogged down in names, divisions, acronyms, and other military "speak." However, the lay person (especially a Southern Lady with no experience or knowledge of military life) can read through this even not understanding and follow this fantastic story.

I highly recommend this book and believe that Eric Blehm has written another best seller. I also a believe that this story of a United States Army man, Green Beret Staff Sergeant Roy Benavidez, needs to be told. It needs to be told so ALL of those who served in Vietnam can be appreciated for their service. There is to be NO SHAME for those who served.

About the author: Eric Blehm is the bestselling author of Fearless: The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy SEAL Team Six Operator Adam Brown and The Only Thing Worth Dying For, which recounts the story of the first Special Forces A-team to infiltrate Taliban-held southern Afghanistan weeks after 9/11. Both titles were New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers. His book The Last Season was the winner of the National Outdoor Book Award and was named by Outside magazine as one of the 10 “greatest adventure biographies ever written.” Blehm lives in southern California with his wife and children.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary from the Blogging for Books review program to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Sunday, June 7, 2015

Readers of Chat With Vera will recognize the name "Adovia" from previous product reviews. It has been a pleasure each time I've been granted the opportunity to review an Adovia product. Today we're looking at the Adovia Dead Sea Salt Scrub that not only exfoliates but gives deep hydration of your freshly exfoliated skin.

I recognize that everyone is different and each person's skin and personal needs are different so it is not likely that a product line will always provide products equally agreeable to each and every person.

First let's look at the really positive aspects of this Adovia Dead Sea Salt Scrub. It has a really pleasant fragrance. One that appeals to my senses and causes a pleasant experience.

Next, the dead sea salts are packed with minerals that aid in the care of my skin and the texture of the salts exfoliates very well. Then the hydration aspect is silky and lasting.

I first used this as a hand and arm scrub to exfoliate and hydrate. I liked this so much I then tried it a couple of days later in my bath. It certainly exfoliates well and the oils also provide a silky film that seems to last and last.

Now let's look at the aspects that did not appeal to me (and this is, of course, my opinion and observations).

The package is sealed with a film that the user tears or cuts off. In doing so, some of the pool of oils splashes out and this can be a bit messy. Also, the oils and salts are somewhat separated with the oil floating on the top. So you have to dig and stir with your fingers to get the product out in a fairly good mix. Once I had secured my product, I used it. It certainly feels good.

I noticed that my bath was very slippery so I had to exercise care to prevent a fall. This would be true with any oil soaks, but I had not expected such slippery conditions from a salt scrub. Due care will be necessary at any age but for the senior population, I would not recommend the use of this product in bath or shower.

Product information (provided by the Adovia) -

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for this review. THE SEA SALT BODY SCRUB: Made with Real Dead Sea Salt - 100% Pure and Genuine for an infusion of 21 Minerals Essential to Proper Skin Function. Great Exfoliator and Moisturizer.

THE BENEFITS: Fine Grain Dead Sea Salts Exfoliate the Top Layer of Dead Skin Cells to Reveal a New Younger Looking Layer of Radiant Skin. Deeply Moisturizing Oils Infuse Skin With Luxurious Hydration that Lasts All Day

Works Great in The Shower or Bath - Also a Great Hand Exfoliator to use in the Sink or Foot Scrub

THE COMPANY: Adovia Mineral Skin Care has been producing skin care products for ten years with thousands of satisfied customers and a proven track record. Our formulation experts specialize in hair & skin care products made from Dead Sea Mud and Dead Sea Salt. Our products are 100% CRUELTY FREE and Never Tested on Animals.

About the book: Richard Mabry's latest medical thriller, Fatal Trauma, will have you reading long into the night!

A gunman who has nothing to lose faces a doctor who could lose it all to prove his innocence.

When Dr. Mark Baker and Nurse Kelly Atkinson are held at the mercy of a dangerous gunman, the lives of every emergency room patient are at stake. At the end of the evening three men are dead. One of them is a police officer who couldn't be saved despite Mark's best efforts. The other two are members of the feared Zeta drug cartel.

Though the standoff is over, the killing is not, because when the drug cartel loses its members, revenge is not far behind. Facing an adversary whose desires are dark and efforts are ruthless, Mark finds himself under suspicion as a killer, yet still a potential victim. When he turns to his high school sweetheart, attorney Gwen Woodruff, for help, Kelly helplessly looks on, as she hides her own feelings for the good doctor.

At the height of the conflict, three questions remain: Who is the shooter? Who will the next victim be? And can Mark prove his innocence before the gun turns on him?

My thoughts: From the moment you turn the first page of your journey into the drama of Dr. Mark Baker's emergency room, you are immersed into a world of danger that spirals into a day to day struggle to survive an ever present and unknown enemy.

After dedicating their lives and professions to care for the injured and sick, to be themselves victims of an unknown force that seeks not to just injure them, but to reek a murderous revenge upon them, Mark, Kelly, and the other members of the medical team become prey to an unseen enemy.

Dr. Mabry brings this world of sinister intrigue into his own beloved and well-known medical arena drawing from his own person medical experience and expertise. It is refreshing to read the works of a medical professional who brings his knowledge and experience of the medical field into his skilled writing!

Fatal Trauma has elements to interest readers who enjoy medical suspense, faith based plots, and a bit of sweet romantic interest. Dr. Mabry doesn't disappoint when he publishes. Enjoyable!

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Litfuse Publicity Group to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review. The giveaway winner's copy is also provided by Litfuse.

Friday, June 5, 2015

About the book: Time: 1865 - Location: Windmill Point, Michigan
After her father's death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren't supposed to have such roles, so it's only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper---even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He's secured the position of lighthouse keeper mostly for the isolation---the chance to hide from his past is appealing. He's not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who's angry with him for taking her job and for his inability to properly run the light. When his failings endanger others, he and Caroline realize he's in no shape to run the lighthouse, but he's unwilling to let anyone close enough to help. Caroline feels drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope . . . and possibly love?

My thoughts: Reading stories that deal with part of our American history not covered in history books but which writers of historical fiction have researched and plotted into delightful stories to entertain and, yes, to educate, is a favorite pastime. Jody Hedlund is just such an author. Her previous book in the Beacons of Hope series was a really good read which I reviewed. See review here.

In Hearts Made Whole, the story begins tragically with the drowning of the lighthouse keeper. His daughter and her siblings remain at the lighthouse and she "mans" it despite the 1865's mindset that keeping a lighthouse is a job for which only a man is suited. She desperately needs the job, but so does Ryan Chambers who is returning injured from the Civil War.

As the story progresses, mean and dangerous incidents begin to unfold that are directed at Caroline intending to discourage her and send her away. She digs in her heels determined to stay because that is the only avenue she sees by which she can earn a livelihood to provide for her family. However, she soon becomes desperate.

Ryan, on the other hand, also needs this job but he has problems not only with his injuries from the war, but from his addiction to opiates and alcohol.

Drawn toward each other because they see a need to help each other, they soon also sense and react to an emotionally charged feeling for each other.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the author and Bethany House Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

I believe caring for my skin is important and that use of special products for eyes, face, hands and/or body works best. I was provided an opportunity to review the Yalmeh eye cream and have used it for nearly three weeks – morning and evening.

Some days when I stay at home, I don’t apply makeup. I do, however, still stick to my skin care regime of cleansing and moisturizing. Those days, I tend to even apply eye cream and moisturizer or serum mid-day as well as morning and evening. Sort of a “spa” day for my skin.

It is difficult to see in this picture,
but I have used over half of the product.
It is pleasant feeling and mildly fragrant.

Days when I use makeup, I have found that the Yalmeh eye cream works well under the makeup with no streaking, flaking, or other problems.

I have allergies and the Yalmeh did not irritate my allergy sensitive eyes. It was, to put it simply, a comfort to use during this eye-stressed time.

I felt the Yalmeh cream performed well as a moisturizer providing the care my skin needed around the eyes. I have dark circles around my eyes and these were made worse following heart surgery. It is hard to say for certain, but I do believe there has been slight and gradual lightening of these dark circles.

The key is that a good moisturizer protects and improves or maintains the condition of the skin on which it is used. The Yalmeh Eye Cream has worked well for me.

Product Description (provided by Yalmeh):

★DARK CIRCLES? Yalmeh's Super Youth Eye Cream treats and repairs wrinkles, dark circles and reduces the look of age spots and reduces fine lines around the eyes. People also use it around the mouth, forehead and cheek area and have seen similar results in those areas★LUXURIOUS FEEL - It contains a combination of Organic Aloe, Alpha Lipoic and Alpha Hydroxy acids which work by removing old skin, allowing new skin to be produced. The Eye Cream is soft and creamy and feels soothing when you put it on. In fact, some have described the feeling as luxurious. It is not greasy. Formulated for Quick Absorption.
★ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS- Yalmeh Eye Cream contains all natural ingredients, no toxic chemicals or cancer causing additives - no mineral oil, propylene glycol or paraben. Not tested on animals NEVER-EVER. The Aloe Vera based eye cream contains organic and natural oils, gels and extracts, as well as Grapeseed Oil and Vitamins E and C, and is an effective natural solution for all types of skin.
★REDUCE FINE LINES - With Yalmeh Super Youth Eye Cream, see the difference in the morning. Skin will look younger, feel softer and the areas under eyes will look lighter. People who have used it around their mouth, forehead and cheek areas, have seen similar results in those areas. Our customers normally see results after three months of daily use, although some see improvements much sooner. Made in the U.S.A. in our Advanced FDA Registered facility. See it on Amazon here.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

About the book: Fast Freddy is one of the sea kids that live in the “coralhood.” Fast Freddy overcomes the ridicule of being different (half shark, half octopus) from the other kids in his new school. Once they find out he can swim fast like a shark, they ask him to join the swim team. They realize he is a great kid and are happy that he helps them win the championship for the first time. He comes from behind overcoming Marcus who is a formidable threat on team Barracudas. His octopus arms wave in victory as he crosses the finish line! Freddy receives the MVP award, but says a prayer of thanks to Jesus for being different and having new friends. Lee Ann Mancini and Dan Sharp have created an underwater world that explodes with color, drawing the children into the captivating story.

My thoughts: Illustrator, Dan Sharp, has created a brilliantly colored pallet of fish and other under-the-sea characters to tell author Lee Ann Mancini's story of accepting our differences. His cute cartoonish styled creatures inhabit the pages of Fast Freddy as all the sea creatures turn out for school and the event of the day, the race.

Freddy is different. He is kind of like a shark and kind of like an octopus. (Is there such a creature?) Anyway, their teacher tries to get the other fishes to like and accept Freddy and welcome him to their school.

The story plays on themes familiar to children: sports, racing, school, the classroom, acceptance, being shy, etc. Children will easily identify with the setting and draw mental conclusions set in their own real life environment.

This is a cute book that comes in soft cover or hard cover versions. The book is Christian orientated with praying to Jesus a vital element.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from BookCrash Book Review program on behalf of the author and publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for this review.

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"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life." John 5:24

__________________________"Courage is fear that has said it's prayers."(pg. 129 A Wedding for Julia by Vannetta Chapman)

You can never learn that Christ is all you need, until Christ is all you have ~Corrie Ten Boom

"God has a very unique way of scooping up the shattered fragments of our hopes and dreams and molding them into a plan of His own - a plan vastly different from ours, but far more wonderful."--Anita Dittman, Holocaust survivor

Man has a madness to misuse that which his mind has manufactured.--Vera G.

A mountain top view is always the more appreciated after you climb out of a dark valley.--Vera G.

To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan, and not quite enough time.— Leonard Bernstein

Some of the people who have impacted me have been as ships that pass in the night. A brief encounter that none-the-less leaves a wake that lifts and floats you and somehow impacts you. Friends are not always forever. They are sometimes like ships in the night – passing briefly and casting a radiance on our being.--Vera

As each new chapter unfolds, we look at past days with wishful sighs longing for the sweetness of them. But each new dawn brings exciting adventures for the growing child to embrace as an adult and for the parent to embrace as one who has launched a wonderful ship on the sea of life.

When play is the work of children and imagination the fuel of discovery, the longings of a child's heart become fantastically real to them enabling them to engage in a world of wonder.

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